Rickets in Adolescents

Risk Factors and Diagnostic Considerations

Inadequate dietary calcium intake, typically less than 300 mg/day, is a risk factor for rickets in adolescents, with a recommended daily intake of 1,250 mg/day for ages 9-18, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics 1
Dark skin pigmentation combined with limited sun exposure is a risk factor for rickets in adolescents, as noted by the American Academy of Pediatrics 2
Prolonged exclusive breastfeeding history without supplementation during infancy is a risk factor for rickets in adolescents, as reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics 2
X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) represents approximately 80% of hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets and can present with symptoms developing after age 2 years, according to the National Kidney Foundation 5

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends combined therapy with vitamin D supplementation and calcium supplementation (1 gram daily) for the treatment of nutritional rickets in adolescents, with an expected healing time of 3-9 months 1